The Northlake library in Illinois has hatched a scheme to build a large scale— 9 foot tall—statue of The Hulk. To do so they have fashioned an Indiegogo campaign. So far they have raised only $920 of the $30,000 needed, so you better get your ass over and there and pledge because it’s pretty obvious that the world needs more giant statues of the Hulk outside libraries.

A nice librarian named Tom Mukite wrote to me with more goals for the statue:

We feel that he will attract new readers to the graphic novels as well become somewhat of an attraction bringing in people that don’t normally think of libraries as a fun place. When they come to see him they’ll find out that we have a huge graphic novel collection and many other fun things such as dvds and cds. Also, young reluctant readers will probably take a chance and pick up a Hulk book or another graphic novel when they become curious about why he’s there.

The library is also hoping to build a comics-making studio with an iMac, drawing pad, Cintiq, and a light box. If all goes well, folks will be able to draw things and then print ’em up on a 3D printer.

Tom goes on to say that that the money will also be used to buy more graphic novels; it is—as is so often the case—the most checked out collection in the library, but they need more budget to get more graphic novels.

The campaign site does not include a mock up of what the statue might look like, but it does include the above photo of the Hulk in a window. I guess they really like the Hulk in Northlake.

When I wake up each morning, I lie in bed and think of the things I need to do that day. I had not previously thought about supporting a 9-foot-tall statue of the Hulk, but now that the idea has been raised, I doubt I will be able to think of much else.

$30,000 for a fundamentally silly idea? These are the things that make people question giving money to otherwise good causes.

I can see that a Hulk statue might be cool, might attract some young readers, okay, maybe. But if you don’t hear the $30,000 price tag and think “Ridiculous wasteful scam” I don’t know what to tell you.

If I worked at Marvel I’d be looking for a way to get involved and part-fund this. Imagine if giant Marvel superhero statues outside libraries became the norm? And if those libraries were then stocked with Marvel books. Isn’t that the kind of advertising that could create new generations of comic readers (aka customers)? Of course, if I worked at Marvel I’d be publishing some comics aimed at, well, kids!

I just donated my whole collection (pending a second trip) to this library. I went to the high school and knew Tom. Please let me say a few things to address skeptics. I delivered a lot of value with my collection because I trust the community and believe in this. I am only responding to these comments to show I 100% support this. It is not just an idea. Many young people are not interested in the normal books. I was one of those young people which developed a thirst for reading because of comics at a late age. This REALLY works… I know first hand… Comics and graphic novels can have an impact.
1. This is legit
2. The money being raised is via donation. It is a fundraiser driven by those who believe in the power of graphic novels. I moved away years ago and when this caught my attention I had to find a way to get involved. The idea that this sort of thinking is a burden on the state is wrong. Financially stable communities are driven by people who care. Volunteers like me are willing to follow if we belive. It takes courage and passion to attempt what Northlake is doing. If more communities had the same courage and passion they would be in great financial state because people who care give for free.
3. The project is about getting readers involved and inspired. It should turn readers into fans and fans into readers.
4. As for intellectual property owners… If they don’t know… They will be made aware. They will not just be inspired but, will be educated on the benefits on getting involved. Creating new readers through libraries will benefit them. One suburb of Chicago would not be noticed but, one success will bread others. For now, I think it best to trust they are not all in but, would love to be.
5. The statue is not for adults. Although it is a site to see; it is intended to touch the imagination of young readers. Once readers open a comic they understand why so many people love them. It is just a matter of finding the right one to make a connection.
6. $30,000 is not a scam or wasteful. It is a lofty goal and may be too high. I hope the number does not work against them. However, make note it is not just about the statue. The statue is intended to inspire. If the funds for the statue are not procured the money will go towards growth. If procured it will help create growth and is a good immediate investment With 30K the library would get the statue, and so much more for the community.